Our Gastroenterology Blog

Posts for tag: Gas

Everyone has gas at some point and, often, it is nothing to worry about. However, sometimes gas can become trapped in or have difficulty traveling through the digestive system, resulting in gastrointestinal issues like pain and bloating. Find out how your doctor can help treat your gas problems with Brookhaven Gastroenterology Associates in Patchogue and Suffolk County, NY.

What causes gas?
Gas is a normal part of the digestion process and happens to everyone. Excess gas exits the body through burping or passing gas. If gas becomes trapped within the digestive system, it causes pain and discomfort. This could occur from eating certain foods or be the result of an underlying condition like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or celiac disease. Your doctor will use a combination of a physical examination, your medical and family history, an assessment of your diet, and, if necessary, various testing methods to diagnose the cause of your gas pains.

Am I suffering from gas pains?
Though gas is a common occurrence, it can become an issue in some situations. Some of the common symptoms of gas pains include:

increased burping

increased flatulence

cramping or pain in the abdomen

bloating

increase in the size of the abdomen

However, if you experience gas pains in combination with the following symptoms, you should see your doctor as soon as possible:

bloody stools

unexplained weight loss

a sudden change in consistency of your stool

a sudden change in the frequency of your bowel movements

persistent vomiting or nausea

constipation

diarrhea

Gas Pain Treatments in Patchogue and Suffolk County, NY
Treating gas pain depends on what causes it and often varies from patient to patient. Some cases of gas pains may benefit from simply changing your diet, stopping with drinking carbonated beverages, drinking more water, or avoiding fried or fatty foods. Over-the-counter or prescription medications can also help with gas pains. If your gas pains come from an underlying condition, your gastroenterologist will help you seek treatment for that condition to help reduce your gas pains.